Is it advantageous to connect with schools prior to applying by visiting them in-person, corresponding over email, etc? My reason for considering this is primarily to learn more about schools as I try to decide where I want to go, but I’m also wondering if this could potentially reflect positively on me while my application is reviewed. Is there any chance that having a face to my name can improve my application? Or is it silly to think that one could improve one’s chances of acceptance by making connections at a school? If communicating with schools prior to applying could potentially increase my chances of acceptance, who are the most important people to establish connections with? Are there any podcast episodes that discuss this? Thanks! 